How to Write Original Songs - Part 1 - Useful Tips, Progressions & Rhythms (Patreon)

and welcome to another Weekly Challenge! In today's session we'll follow up on our study of major keys and begin learning the process of writing our own original songs! Composition is something that guitarist of all levels can enjoy, and is fantastic way to retain information as you apply the techniques and theory concepts that you have studied. Let's get started!

1. Use the Basics - The ability to compose quality music is not dependent on years of study, or virtuosity - beginners can get started with a basic understanding of music and a few standard techniques. Of course as your musicianship improves, so will your ability to analyze and replicate more complex ideas, but remember, some of the most memorable songs throughout music history employ a few basic chords and a simple hook. 

2. You Are What You Eat - Nourish your creative health with a steady diet of rich and diverse music. Dig into the classics, discover contemporaries, and branch out into new musical genres. As your understanding of music theory and playing chops improve, so will your ability to borrow from these sources.

3. Learn Basic Music Theory - There are a few music theory concepts that will allow you to analyze your favorite songs, and break their components down into raw materials for writing songs. To learn the origins of chords and progressions, click here - for understanding of major keys click here.

4. Learn Stock Chord Progressions - The majority of hit songs utilize a few common chord progressions. These “stock” chord progressions are the perfect starting point for novice song writers. I recommend working in the key of G where the majority of available chords can be played as basic open shapes:

Recommended Progressions:

1,4,5 - G, C, D

1,6,4,5 - G, Em, C, D

1,5,6,4 - G, D, Em, C

2,5,1 - Am, D, G

5. Find the Right Groove - One of the most important elements to a memorable song is the rhythm. For this reason, I recommend that all songwriters experiment with time signatures, strumming patterns, syncopation, and dynamics to give each song it's own unique feel. Beginners can get started by memorizing a few basic strumming and picking patterns in a variety of time signatures:

Pop/Calypso Pattern:

R&B Percussive Patter:

Basic 3/4:

6/4 finger-style - basic arpeggio:

Associated Content:

• How to Know Which Notes are in a Major Key
• Mastering Major Keys Course
• My Original Music 

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